The ‘WOW’ Factor of the Eastern Cape Game Reserves

South Africa is home to a number of renowned game reserves, national parks and safari lodges. In all corners of our beautiful country, there’s a game reserve for every type of occasion, traveller and budget. Unfortunately, many holiday-makers tend to overlook the Eastern Cape. When you consider that South Africa is home to the likes of Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands and Madikwe Game Reserve, you might understand why they overlook the ol’ Eastern Cape. Well, we’re here to dispel that myth; to show you the ‘WOW’ factor of the Eastern Cape.

Malaria-free, intimate lodgings, service with a smile, diverse biomes, stunning landscapes and remarkable game viewing – these are just a few unique features of an Eastern Cape safari. The game reserves are easily accessible, located roughly an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth. They also act as the perfect finale for a trip along the Garden Route. The game reserves cater for all budgets and preferences, from three-star to four-star, safari lodges to tented camps. There really is something for everyone.

We’ve seen the Eastern Cape’s ‘WOW’ factor first-hand, so we speak from experience when we say that the province boasts some exceptional private game reserves. Over the last few weeks, we’ve visited a few nearby game reserves, the most recent being a visit to Lalibela Game Reserve and Founders Lodge. From the brilliant accommodation options and breathtaking views, to awesome safari activities, Lalibela and Founders Lodge (or any other Eastern Cape game reserve, for that matter) promise an unforgettable experience for both locals and tourists.

Our first stop was Lalibela, where we were welcomed by our friendly hosts, Rob and Wendy. After a quick cup of coffee, Rob and Wendy presented a video on the black-wattle crisis that the game reserve is currently facing. Black-wattle is a fast-growing alien invader tree that has caused severe problems for the game reserve, one of which is the decreasing of available habitat and food sources needed for the wildlife and game animals. Lalibela’s new owners are avid conservationists determined to protect and preserve the game reserve’s fauna, flora and wildlife. As such, they have undertaken an environmental rehabilitation project to get rid of the black-wattle.

Our group climbed into a game vehicle and, with Rob as our guide, we were shown the forests of black-wattle. Roughly 2,000 hectares of land has been cleared and reseeded with indigenous plant seeds, with Rob optimistically suggesting that 40 percent of the battle has been won. He believes that in 2019 they will be close to getting rid of all the black-wattle in the area. Albeit problematic for Lalibela, the need to clear the alien species has helped create jobs for those in the surrounding community.

Our next stop was Tree Tops Safari Lodge, a tented camp and the smallest lodge in the game reserve. The camp is currently closed, with maintenance underway to give the camp a new and revitalised look. While the structures will remain the same, a soft refurbishment has been planned for each room. Tree Tops’ peaceful and serene setting is complemented by secluded accommodation, with chalets tucked away and surrounded by lush greenery. The main lodge has a communal bar which leads out to an expansive deck with a fireplace. In the evenings, guests can enjoy sitting around the fire, sharing stories of that day’s game viewing and watching traditional dancers twirling to the rhythm of African drums beating.

We then visited Lentaba Safari Lodge, which is currently also closed due to renovations. We were amazed at the work being done, and while an outsider may be overwhelmed, we saw the potential for what it could look like. Two new elevated chalets are being built, which will be be completed by 12 August. The other rooms are also going to be treated to a soft refurbishment.

We hopped back in the vehicle and were taken to Hillside Private Villa, a sole-use house ideal for families. The beautiful house, with its lofty ceilings and a spacious interior, is currently closed for renovations. Once it has been redone, the villa will have five en-suite rooms each with glass-stacking doors, private verandah and an old country look and design.

Our next stop was Mark’s Camp, where we enjoyed some refreshments and a light lunch. While Mark’s Camp is currently open, the rooms have been repainted, and new taps and shower heads have been installed. A soft refurbish is also planned for next year. The camp welcomes families with children of all ages, offering a dedicated children’s programme guaranteed to keep younger travellers entertained. Lalibela recently purchased an additional 2, 000 hectares of land, and Mark’s Camp will soon offer fauna, flora and safari walks in this new section. While no Big Five animals will roam this area, guests will be able to spot antelope, giraffe and other smaller creatures on these walks.

We then visited the new staff village that is busy being built in the reserve. The new houses will have a modern feel, with accommodation for five families and dormitories for 83 individuals. It was great to see that the staff will soon receive new accommodation with a fresh look. As our hosts suggested, when your staff are happy, so are your guests.

We said our goodbyes to Lalibela Game Reserve and headed to Founders Lodge – a private lodge situated adjacent to Shamwari Game Reserve. The lodge was once the home of Adrian Gardiner, the founder of the Mantis Collection. We had a tour of the lodge’s six rooms, each boasting a spacious bathroom, beautiful furnishings and a private patio. The lodge also features an open breakfast room and a comfortable living room with a sunken bar. Stepping out into the garden, we were blown away by the gorgeous setting and magnificent wilderness views. On our way out, we encountered two rhinos on the side of the road just metres away from our vehicle. It was the perfect end to a day in the Eastern Cape bush.

Tayla-Ann Rodger is a web content writer for East Cape Tours. She has an Honours degree in Media Studies from Nelson Mandela University, where she majored in English and Design and Layout. Her passions include graphic design, literature and online shopping.